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This book explores the aspirations and experiences of the young people who are the real focus of the UK 14-19 agenda, the 'disaffected', 'disengaged' and low-achieving. Perceived not to have succeeded in traditional academic subjects, they move into low-level vocational education programs post-16, often failing to pursue or complete 'opportunities' for progression. The author draws on research undertaken in two large [further education] FE colleges in England's Midlands, to present detailed qualitative data about the lives and educational experiences of this group of young people. It argues against the common assumption that their aspirations are low, and reveals the complexities of their lives as they attempt the transition from school to work. The data is presented in narrative form to illuminate the voices of the young people as they talk about their lives, hopes and aspirations. The author provides an analysis of the implications for policy and practice of the findings, so the book will inform trainee teachers and practitioners, managers or policy makers already involved in the implementation of the 14-19 agenda. Part one, '14-19 vocational education: history and context', contains the following chapters: History, policy and practice in the 14-19 sector; The invisible cohort: lower level vocational students; Social justice. Part two, 'Narratives of a difficult present; hopes for a different future', contains: The social and institutional contexts of the colleges; Visions of a digital future: [General National Vocational Qualifications] GNVQ IT group, St. Dunstan's College; Rehearsing domesticity: GNVQ Health and Social Care group at St. Dunstan's College; Serving time: Woodlands College level 1 group. Part three, 'Little stories of hope, dreams, inequality and (lack of) opportunity', contains: Classed and gendered institutions; Fantasy futures; Buying in to learning or working hard at doing leisure?; Nurturing and the needy: a therapeutic ethos; Conclusions; Implications for policy, practice, research and social justice.